Cole Opposes Deeply Flawed Gun Bills

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted on H.R. 2377 and H.R. 7910, two legislative packages of gun control bills. Cole voted against both.

"I regret that House Democrats chose to use an emotional and highly charged situation to advance legislation that infringes on the rights of law abiding, firearm owners. Unfortunately, both partisan gun control packages passed on the floor this week are more focused on capitalizing politically than providing a real solution to a tragic problem," said Cole. "Moreover, these bills would have no practical effect on this crisis and are solely intended to politicize the Second Amendment rather than adequately address the root causes of violent crime and mass shootings.

"Perhaps contrary to popular belief, Republicans have actually taken real, concrete steps to address gun violence in a way that also respects the Second Amendment such as the Fix NICS Act, which strengthened the existing National Instant Criminal Background Check System. In addition, the Trump Administration issued regulations to ban bump stocks. Republicans have also consistently supported funding to enhance mental health services across the country. Personally, I have been proud to support increased funding for the National Institute on Mental Health as well as funding for mental health block grants and mental health crisis response grants."

Earlier this week, Cole made remarks during the Rules Committee's consideration of both pieces of legislation. Video is available here and transcript here.

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